Peter Principle Reconsidered

  It has been nearly a half-century since the publication of Lawrence J. Peter’s (1919-1990) management opus The Peter Principle: Why Things Always Go Wrong.  The main thesis of the best-selling book, according to Wikipedia, is: …the selection of a candidate for a position is based on the candidate’s performance in their current role, rather than on abilities … Read more

In a Nutshell

There’s an old saying in Tennessee — I know it’s in Texas, probably in Tennessee — that says, fool me once, shame on — shame on you.  Fool me — you can’t get fooled again. ~George W. Bush, September 17, 2002 That’s our W!  Perhaps the single biggest beneficiary of the Trump era.  It only … Read more

The Old Fashion Way

  What does it say about the American economy when our memory of iconic businesses is shorter than their advertising campaigns?  Such is the case with Smith Barney.  In a September 25, 2012 press release, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management announced it would cease using the “Smith Barney” moniker even though Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman … Read more

Biting the Hand That Feeds You

  Following the release of the Republican tax plan, much is being made of the extent to which the proposal violates the long-held GOP and Tea Party (is there a difference?) concern about the growing federal deficit.  Much like the failed attempts at ACA repeal and replace, this legislation is not based on long-held Republican … Read more

Tax Reform for Dummies

  So you want to give middle income American’s a tax break which also simplifies the voluminous tax laws and regulations. Or at least make the tax system less tilted in favor of the richest Americans.  Yet, there are elements of the current code which incent people to do things in the country’s best interest.  … Read more